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A STORY OF '98, 



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LAMBH DAREAGH: 



A STORY OF '98. 



T:>:Rj^is/Lji^, xisr thzrede a.ots. 



BY 

y 



CHAS. E. CALLAHAN 



Entered according to Act of Congress, by Chas. E. Callahan, in the year 1878, in the 
Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. 



0^ 




'y^^y^^/jM 



CINCINNATI: 

Printed for the Author, but not Published. 

Elm Street Printing Company, 176 & 178 Elm Street 

1878. 



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DRAMATIS PERSONS. 
Irish. 
Edmund O'Neill, an Insurgent Chief. 
DooNEY McHuGH, his follower and kinsman. 
Sheil Burke, O'Neill's rival. 
McShane, an Attorney. 
Dermott, ] 

Blake, | In^^g*"*^- 
Blanche Carbery, betrothed to Edmund. 
Grace Courtney, her cousin from Dublin. 
Shelah, maid to Blanche. 

British. 
Major Millward. 
Captain Evelyn. 
Sergeant Tempest. 
Corporal Gust. 
Private Banks. 

Soldiers, Peasants, etc. 

Time, 1798. Scene, County Wicklow, Ireland. 



PROPERTIES. 



Act I. Scene I. Green carpet, handsome furniture, table. Pens, ink and 
paper on table. Written letter on table. Scene II. Stick for 
Dooney, guns for Sergeant and Corporal, whistle for Dooney. Scene 
III. Several liquor bottles, and two cords to tie same. Scene V. 
Camp-fire (lighted) and kettle on tripod, pack of cards, guns for 
Banks, soldiers and peasants, and rustic bank for seat, drinking - 
cups for soldiers, cord to bind Edmund, Irish flag for peasants. 

Act II. Scene I. Carpet and furniture as before, bunch of papers for 
McShane. Scene II. Stuffed club for Dooney, written letter for 
Sergeant. Scene III. Loaded pistol for Burke, sure fire. Guns 
for soldiers. Scene V. Tables and chairs for court-martial. 

Act III. Scene 1. Furniture, etc., as before. 



"LAMBH DARRAGH. 



^OT I. 

SCENE I. C. D. Fancy in 3. Drawing Room Table and 
Furniture. Pen^ Ink, and Paper on Table. GtRACE Courtney 
discovered seated Sewing. Captain Evelyn standing beside her. 

Captain. And so, Miss Grace, you have fled the haunts of love 
for those of war? But you did not evade me long. I like this wild 
country and its people. Tour cousin seems a charming girl. 

Grace. She hates a soldier. 

Capt. And you? You are Irish, too. 

Grace. Oh, I love them all. {^Mocking.) Men are made for 
action, you know; and desperate deeds alone fill up the measure 
of their hopes. 'Tis said that Ambition is the prophet of the 
heart. Follow its promptings, Mr. Warrior, and be great. 

Capt. You laugh at me. 

Grace. I envy you the privilege of being a soldier. 

Capt. Why? 

Grace. Why? Because red becomes me, of course. (Laughs.) 
Don't be so glum, Mr. Captain; you ar epositively dull. Can't 
you think of something to amuse me ? 

Capt. What have you done with your guitar? 

Grace. Thrown it away. I did not play— I only thrummed. 
I never satisfy myself. 

Capt. Strange, then, the emotions you produce in others. 

Grace. Pray, no compliments, Mr. Evelyn. 

Capt. Why do you call me Mr. Evelyn? 

Grace. Why? Because you are now in the army. I have 
a great awe of the army. 

Capt. But Mr. Evelyn is so formal. 

Grace. What should I call you then ? 

Capt. Eugene. 

Grace. You do not call me Grace. 



4 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Capt. Would it not be too familiar ? 

Grace. I suppose that is a specimen of army logic. Do you 
know you get very stupid? I wish you would invent something 
to amuse me. 

Capt. I can hardly understand you, Miss Grace. 

Grace. I will give you a task. You shall write my character. 

Capt. Miss Courtney ! 

Grace. (Rising.) Come now. Here are pen and paper. Begin. 

Capt. Your character? 

Grace. Yes, as you understand it. Of course you won't tell 
the truth. But you are too vain of your judgment to compromise 
it entirely. Come. 

Capt. I can not. I should not know where to begin. 

Grace. I'll help you. First, she likes her own way — all wom- 
en do— but give it to her and she won't care to have it Second, 
she's quick in resentment — 

Capt. (Interrupting.) But quicker to forgive. 

Grace. That's as may be. Third, she has a temper. 

Capt, The summer lightning, that makes the atmosphere more 
clear. Give me the pen You have inspired me. 

Grace. That is delightful. (Gives pen.) Don't be afraid of 
offending. I know my faults better than you. ( WalJ^s about and 
hums song.) 

Capt. (Seats himself. Aside.) How my hand trembles. (Aloud.) 
There, I have written something. (She runs to take if.) Stay 
Don't read it yet, till I am gone. For the present, farewell I 
have been too long from camp. [^Givesnote. Exit Door L. 

Grace. What a flurry he is in. (Looks at note.) What is 
the meaning of this? (Reads.) ^^ Grace.'' Grace! Why should 
I be frightened at my own name? ^'^ Grace., pardon me. I dare 
not speak what 1 am going to write.'' No! No ! It's some folly. 
How violently I tremble, "i hope you will forgive." Why, it 
is blotted. Tears! Tears! Nonsense! ^^ I love you." Every- 
thing is changed in a moment. I seem scarcely to tread on earth. 
My heart beats as if it had wings. "J. word., a look will hid me 
hope or despair." Love, Eugene! Does he, Eugene, love me? 
That I should have a human being's whole happiness — his ! — in 
my hands, to make or destroy with a word ! Let me think. 
(Sinks into chair.) 

Re-enter Captain, Door L, and slowly approaches her. 

Capt. Grace. 

Grace. Not now; not now. (Averting her face.) 

Capt. (Kneels.) Grace, dear Grace, say that you forgive me. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 5 

Enter Ellen, Door R, and starts at seeing them. Grace covers 

her face vnth her hands. Picture — Music, ^'■Kathleen 

Mavourneen^^ for change. 

SCENE II. A Wood. 1 G. 
Enter Edmund, followed hy Dooney, L. 

DooNEY. And you think, Masther Edward, we'll be ready to 
shtrike soon? 

Edmund. Hist! Dooney, in these times even the rocks have 
ears, and we must ^uard our tongues, if we would save our heads. 

Dooney. Faix, I'll be as quiet as Biddy Foy's pig, and she made 
a dummy of that by cutting off its head. 

Ed. I am going to Dunfoyle, to learn the news from Dublin. 
See that the boys do not hover about the cave where the arms 
are. They suspect us in Wicklow, and may send a detachment 
against us. [Exit L. 

Dooney. Troth, and it's not myself would be sorry if they did. 
I've not had a bit o' shtick-whirlin' for some time. 

Enter Sheil Burke, L. 

Burke. G-ood-morning, Mr. McHugh. (With mock respect.) 

Dooney. Mornin', Mishter Burke, sir. (Contemptuously.) 

Burke. You're not much of a friend to me, Dooney. You 
worked to make the O'Neill captain over me. [X's to R.~\ 

Dooney. Troth, an' I did, an' it's thinkin' I am, you might 
be proud to be his leftenant. 

Burke. I am in your debt, Dooney, and some day I'll settle 
up some old scores, my lad ! (^Spoken maliciously.) [Exit R. 

Dooney. It's no love for ye I bear, Mishter Sheil Burke, wid 
your black mug and grinning teeth. (Follows him off slowly.) 
Eiter Shelah, L. 

Shelah. This must be de place, but sorra pathriot do I see. 
I'm to tell Master Edmund for my young mistress, Blanche, dat the 
sodgers are down from Wicklow, and quarthered in Murtaugh's 
Glen, and faith its mysel' does it willin'ly, for if there's to be re- 
bellioning and shootin' it's my own thrue Dooney mus'n't be 
throwin' himself away. 

Re-enter Dooney, R. 

Dooney. May all de Powers above rain blessin's on ye, Shelah, 
ye jewel, that youve come to see me, and you bring somethin' 
good for me. 

She. Dade an' ye'd better learn to shpake truth, for I'm not 
afther you, and I don't bring nothin', 'ceptin' bad news. 



6 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

DoONEY. Troth, darlint, your eye shpakes truth if your tongue 
doesn't. The good you bring is yourself, an' the very sun is 
brighter for ye, machree. 

She. Well, Dooney, you'll get no return for your blarney. 
It's myself that thinks you're a bad man. 

Dooney. I am. I could kill you. 

She. {Interruptmg) What ! 

Dooney. With kindness. 

She. Oh. 

Dooney. Yes; and then I'd ate you. You always looked 
swate enough to ate. 

She. Oh, you're a cannibal. 

Dooney. I am. I'm a hannibal av you say so And I'm bad. 
When we become partners for life, Shelah, you'll be the thruly 
good and I'll be the wicked partner. 

She. But we're not partners yet, sir. 

Dooney. Don't fear I mane to take you in. I'm not proud. 

She. The impudence ! Do you know what? 

Dooney. Which? 

She. I'm in the notion to send you back to Dublin. 

Dooney. That's just what I'm afther. 

She. What? 

Dooney. Doublin, and you'll have to help me double. 

She. Maybe. {Saucily.) 

Dooney. And when we two are doubled, we'll only be one. 

She. Indeed ! 

Dooney. Yes, and so will you be won — when I win you. 

She. When you do. 

Dooney. Shelah, whist ! I've brought you a handsome present 
all the way from Dublin. Will you have it? 

She. Of course I will — if it's handsome. 

Dooney. Divil a doubt can there be of that, if I'm a judge. 
Now, on your honor, will you take the present ? 

She. Upon my honor, yes. What is it? 

Dooney. A husband ! • 

She. a which? 

Dooney. Oh, you're bound to take the present, you know 

She. Am I ? But I didn't say when, Mr. Smart. 

Dooney. Come, Shelah, darlint, jokes aside. Will you have 
me? I've earned you honestly, and faith you're about the first 
honest earning of my life. So don't chate me out of my wages. 

She. But, Dooney, they tell me you're wild. 

Dooney. I'll be tame when you cage me, 

She. And will you be good? 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 7 

DoONEY. I'll thry. 

She. You won't swear. 

DooNEY. Only, my love, for you, Shelah. 

She. Nor drink ? 

DoONEY. Only the light of your bright eyes. 

She. Nor keep bad company ? 

DooNEY. No, exceptin' you, darlint. Now, what do you say, 
Shelah ? An honest answer to an honest question. 

She. {Detnurely?) Why, if you was the only man in the 
world, I suppose I'd have to take you; and as there don't seem 
to be any other man for me — 

DoONEY. (Interrupting.) Oh, let me smother you. (Embrace ) 

She. (Releasing.^ That will do, now. 

DooNEY. Yis, that will do now. But what's the news, Shelah? 
It's not bad, or your purty face wouldn't be so bright. 

She. Don't come so close wid your blarney. I know what 
you're afther, and you'd betther mind your behavior in the open 
woods. My news is not for you, but for Masther Edmund, the 
captain. 

DooNEY. Well, and ain't I his lefbenant? You see, Soelah, 
we'll have a big rigiment, and the O'Neill will be the gineral, and 
I'll be his next ossifer, and whin we shtrike the blow, and drive 
de bloody coats into the salt say, mebbe he'll become King of Ire- 
land an' I'll be the Prime Minister, and thin, Shelah, thin it's a 
Dutchess I'll make o' ye, if ye behave yoursel'. So now tell me 
de news. {Coaxingly .) 

She. Well, I will, for I can't shtand here talkin' de blessed 
day. The sodgers have come down, and are camped in Murtaugh's 
Grlen, and they've got some big papers all printed, sayin' all reb- 
els '11 be shot if they are, rebels. 

DoONEY. Shpose the ribils ain't ribils, den they don't shoot 
'em, eh! I know dem papers; they call 'em pork-allymashuns. 

She. Whist, now! and Miss Blanche is dreadfully scared, and 
wants Mr. Edmund to see her afore he does anything. And indade, 
Dooney, I'd wish to see Ireland free, but it's afraid I am you can't 
beat the sodgers. 

Dooney. That's jist like the women. Why should we be 
afeard o' the sodgers? 

She. They've got the guns, you know. 

Dooney. Yis, and so have we — Frinch guns. And whin we 
haven't we can take our pikes ; and best of all we have shtrong 
Irish arms, stout Irish hearts and our howly Irish cause. I'll 
put them three things ag'in British bagonets every day. And 
now, Shelah, I'll tell you the same in another way. (Sings.) 



8 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

CUSHLA MACHREE. 

Air — Widow Machree. 

Arrah Shelah Machree, when de black dogs of war, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
Are snarlin' and howlin' like wolves at your door, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
Don't thremble, my dear, 
For you've nothing to fear 
While your own Dooney's near, 

To his Cushla Machree, 
To save you, he'd give 
Life itself, and not live, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ! 

They have the money and men at command, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
But money and men have before this been lammed, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
We're a goin' to thry, 
And you know it's no lie 
We can do or can die, ^ 

Darling Cushla Machree w-^ 
Then smother your^fears — T^ 
Smiles are better than tears — u 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ! 

And then when the cloud has passed out of our sky, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
Like our own beloved isle we'll be one, you and I, 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ; 
Two doubled make one, 
Though it sounds some like fun, 
And I'll make you the one. 

Jewel Cushla Machree; 
And if I may make free, 
Why your^shadow I'll be — 

Och hone, Cushla Machree ! 

She. I'll carry as light a heart as I can, Dooney, avich The 
doubling will do when we're out of throuble. But, whist ! Who's 
coming now? (^Looks L.) 

Dooney. Be the powers, it's a couple o' red-coats. Run 
away, Shelah, an' lave me to deal with them. 

She. Dooney, it's not a fight you'd be bavin' ? 

Dooney. Divil a one. I'll be as shwate with them, as their 
own poshterity that brought 'em up. 

She. Well, take care o' yourself, an' I'll get back to Miss 
Blanche. [Exit R. 



LAMBH DARRAQH. 9 

DooNEY. Now, what are dese thievin' robin red breasts 
aftber. 

Enter Sergeant Tempest and Corporal Gust, L, marching 
lock-step The Sergeant corpulent^ and the Corporal very lean. 
Music, Gens D'Armes Duet. 

Sergeant. Corporal, halt ! Front. (^Business — Music stops.) 

Corporal. Yea, Sergeant. (Speaks humbly^ and in a light thin 
voice.) 

Serg't. (^Sees Dooney.) Come, Highrisbman, wbat are you 
doing up on this bill? Hem. 

Corp. {Echoing.) Tbis bill ! Hem. 

Serg't. {^Eying him severely.) Corporal! (^Very majestically,) 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant ( Very cringingly.) 

DooNEY. Tbis bill, is't? (Sergeant nods.) Ob, yis ! well 
tbin, sir, I mane Gineral — 

Serg't. General ! (Ahem ) 

Corp. (Hem ) 

DoONEY. Yis, your bonor. 

Serg't. (Majestically.) No, sir, not a General, not — quite ! 
(Hem.) 

Corp. Not by a mile. (Hem.) 

Serg't. Corporal ! (Rebuking him.) 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant. (Humbly.) 

DooNEY. Arrab tbin, botb o' ye's looks like one. (They 
''hem r and straighten up.) It's only a poor cottager I am, av 
ye plaze, and I'm up here lookin' up a bit o' turf. 

Serg't. (Looking severe.) Look here, Hirishman, do you get 
turf upon the bills ? Speak ! (Hem.) 

Corp. Spoke ! (Hem.) 

Serg't. Corporal ! 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant 

DooNEY. Your honor's laughin' at a poor boy. Ye knows we 
picks it off the rocks. (Aside.) I wonder if the Roddies '11 
shwallow that. 

Serg't. Oh, ah ! to be sure we knew ; we were only trying 
you. (Hem.) 

Corp. We're little Jokers. (Hem.) 

Serg't. Now, Hirishman, tell us how far it is to the Carbery 
mansion 

Dooney. (Aside.) Miss Blanche's house, is it? Wonder 
wbat they want there ! (Aloud.) Carbery, is it. Major? 

Serg't. Yes, Hirishman. Our leftenant wants liquor, and 
we bear they have good cellars. I've got the directions, but, by 



10 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Greorge, the way seems devilish long, sir, and your Irish roads are 
damned bad. (Hem.) 

Corp. (Spells.) B-a-d. Bad ! (Hem.) 

Serg't. Corporal ! 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant. 

DooNEY. Faith, that's just it, sir. Our roads are so bad that 
we give you good measure to make up. 

Serg't. Well, Hirishman, how much further is it ? 

DoONEY. (Scratching head and looking simple.) It mayn't 
be furder at all, at all, but furder or nearder, sorra one o' me 
knows, for I live down this other way. You might ask at Mrs. 
MacMoriarity's, av ye go by it. 

Serg't. Mrs. Mac what? 

DooNEY. MacMoriarity, your honor. The tavern, you know. 

Serg't. How far is that? 

DoONEY. Well, a thrifle o' sixteen miles or so- 

Serg't. Hirishman, you're a hass ! Come along, Corporal. 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant. 

Serg't. Right face ; forward, march. Hem. 

Corp. March. (Hem.) Music, as before. 

[Exeunt Sergeant and Corporal, lock-step, R. 

DooNEY. (Grossing R, and looking after them.) It's this bit 
o' shtick I'd like to hem over your dirthy backs, and mebbe I'll 
do it afore long, ye thiefs. 

Enter Edmund O'Neill, L, cautiously. 

Edmund. Are you alone, Dooney ? 

DooNEY. Faix, I am. There's no one wid me, 'ceptin' me. 

Ed. What voices were those just now ? 

DooNEY. A couple o' murderin' sodgers from down at Mur- 
taugh's was here. 

Ed. Already? I did not go to Dunfoyle. Hearing of the 
military, I did not deem it prudent. There is only a small de- 
tachment as yet, but I learn a whole company will follow. 

Dooney. These two fellys is gone down to Miss Blanche's 
house to shteal. 

Ed. Indeed ! 

Dooney. And Miss Blanche feels nervous like, and would 
wish to see you, and mebbe we coul i go now, an' give these fellys 
a good batin'. I've no objections to goin' along with you ( Wip- 
ing his mouth with his sleeve, and eying Edmund sheepishly 

Ed. (Archly.) I know you haven't, Dooney. And go we 
will. Call out what boys are in the cave, and see how they bear 
the news. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 11 

DooNEY. Divil a fear for thim. They're made o' the right 
shtuff, as Feeny said iv his goose when he couldn't shtick a fork 
intil it. 

DoONEY goes R, and blows a whistle. Enter Dermott, Blake 
and Peasants, followed slowly hy Sheil Burke. Edmund stands 
L, C, Dooney L, Peasants R C., Burke R. 

Dermott. How now, Captain? Have you brought news? 

Blake Has the time come ? 

Ed. The time comes fast. Look around. Where we stand 
once stood our ancestors ; men of an elder time, a greater race, 
who left us their names as monuments. Who stood where we 
stand, not as we, shackled in mind and limb, but free as the air 
that blew upon their brows. Let the light rayed from their deeds 
fall upon us as a halo. Let us like true men strive to sustain that 
legacy of glory, and to its splendor add something of our own. 

Dermott. The chance for a fight makes one twice a man. 

Ed. True, Dermott. War is the wine of life ; warmed by its 
spirit, we feel that we are men. 

Blake. Dooney says the soldiers are at Murtaugh's. Let us 
crush them. 

Dermott. Yes, at once. 

Ed. Softly, lads. The time for action is near, but we must 
not be rash. If all the blows for Irish freedom had fallen to- 
gether, we need not this day meet in mountain passes. No, men, 
we have strength, courage, patriotic ardor ; but to succeed we 
mu^t also have union. When we rise, there must be fifty thou- 
sand countrymen shoulder to shoulder with us. The day is set, 
but even the mountain air must not hear it. 

Burke (^At R, aside.) Would that I knew the day. I could 
make my knowledge pay. 

Dermott. Is Lord Edward still safe ? 

Ed. I hope so. He is concealed in Dublin. 

Burke. {Aside.) I must remember this ! 

Ed. We must be ready at all times for action. Let the word 
be passed that we shall have a muster next Sunday. Then we will 
know on whom we can rely. 

Burke. (Aside.) This will be my opportunity. I must get 
word to Wicklow to-night. 

Ed And now, men, keep concealed. 1 will be with you again 
this eveuing. 

Burke. (Aside.) And I must be ahead of you to Blanche's. 

[Exit R. 

Blake. Well, good luck attend you. Captain. 

[Exeunt R, all hut Edmund and Dooney. 



12 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Ed. Come, Dooney, Our fellows are true metal. 

DooNEY. Give 'em a chance, and they'll make the red-coats 
a de'il redder. But that black-muzzled Burke, I don't take to 
him. He shtood, mutterin' all the time, with divil a word to say 
to you. 

Ed. Yes, he was sullen. 

DooNEY. They say he tried to be soft on Miss Blanche, and 
that he bears you no good will for cuttin' him out. 

Ed. He is probably no friend of mine. But he is one of us, 
and controls a good neighborhood. 

DooNEY. Well, it's one eye I'll have for the sodgers in front, 
and the other two for that schnaik at my side, so I will. 

[Exeunt R. Music, Gens D'Armes. 

SCENE III. Same as Scene i. 

Enter Shelah, L, ushering in Sergeant, Tempest and Cor- 
poral Gust. 

She. Come this way, boys ; I'll show you the kitchen. 

Serg't. Well, young woman, we won't refuse to eat — 

Corp. Oh, dear, no! 

Serg't. Corporal ! 

Corp. Yea, Sergeant. 

Serg't. (^Eyes Corporal reprovingly, who cringes.) But what 
we're hafter is liquor— summat good to drink. (Hem.) 

Corp. Drink ! (Hem.) 

She. May I never see a husband if there's sorra drop in the 
house. 

Enter Blanche, R. 

Blanche. Shelah, show these men to the cellar; let them 
take what they will. 

She. Oh, they may shtrangle if they wish ; (aside,) faith and 
they would av I had my way. 

Serg't. As you love your king, young woman, treat us well. 
(Hem.) 

Corp. Well. Hem ! (Music as before. Exeunt Shelah, Ser- 
geant and Corporal, B.) 

Blanche. War turns men to wolves; tramples their con- 
sciences under his iron heels, juggles with faith and honesty. 
Ah, me ! The weak and helpless feel his blight first and worst. 

Enter Grace, Door L. 

Grace. Cousin Blanche, I have let a lover into thevhouse. 
Blanche. Edmund? 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 13 

Grace. No, another. He looks black and grim enough for 
a hero ; so you had better take him, and then I can capture master 
Edmund for myself. 

Blanche. (Smiling.) Madcap. You must remain with me. 

GrRACE. Not I. You might return the favor sometime when 
I wished you not. Captivate the gentleman, Cousin. You know 
you've only one beau. {Laughing.) (Exit Door L.) 

Blanche. Can it be Burke again? 

Enter Burke, Door L. 

Burke. Pardon my want of ceremony. I saw soldiers enter 
and followed. But I am glad to find you alone. 

Blanche. I can not call the feeling mutual, Sheil Burke. 
Our last rencounter was not so cordial. 

Burke, And for that reason I desired to see you now. 
Blanche Carbery, I have much to be pardoned. I am hasty in 
my temperament. The hot blood of the Burkes fills my veins, 
and when I pursue an object it is with my whole soul. I can not 
lay claim to prudence. 

Blanche. Mr. Burke, I will pardon the past, if you will now 
but leave me. 

Burke. Not yet, Blanche, not till again you have heard how 
madly I love you. 

Blanche. It is indeed madness, Sheil Burke. 

Burke. (Passionately.) And why should it be madness? We 
were raised together, Blanche. Have we not played and quarreled 
side by side, and again been friends? And even as a child, how 
I loved you! 

Blanche. But Sheil, I — 

Burke. But you — let me say it for you — found me too rough, 
unpolished ! And when this smooth-talking, insinuating Edmund 
O'Neill appeared, with his college-bred manner, and undermined 
me like the sneak he is — 

Blanche. (^Indignantly.) You presume too far, sir. I will 
not listen to you. ( Turns R to go. He grasps her wrist.) What, 
sir! Violence? 

Burke. None, but you shall hear me out. Blanche Carbery, 
I can hate as well as love. With you I could be good and true 
to my country. 

Blanche. Oh, Sheil, be so. She needs all true men now ! 

Burke. (Eagerly.) I will, Lady Blanche, if you will take me. 

Blanche. No, no, Burke. You are mad to press me so. 

Burke. (X's R.) Then listen. Though friends, country, 



14 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

heaven itself be lost, I'll have my vengeance on that man. And 
as for you, Blanche, I swear you shall be mine, dead or alive. 

(Exit R.) 
Blanche. (Sinks into chair.) Why does that man pursue 
me? Trail me as savagely as the wolf his prey? I fear him, this 
human wolf, for he is bold as well as wicked. 

Enter Shelah, R. 

She. Troth, Missis, the red birds are makin' whisky tubs o' 
thimsels in the cellar, but only give me lave, I'll let them get 
good drunk and thin break their dirty heads wid a poker. 

Blanche. You foolish girl ! We must be circumspect. 
The Government in dealing with rebels would have little regard 
for our sex. 

She. I met that black-mouthed Burke, bad cess to him, go- 
ing out, and a cloudy look he gave me 

Blanche. I am glad he has gone. 

She. But worse the luck, he saw young Masther Edmund and 
Dooney come in, and thin he looked blacker nor ever. 

Blanche. O'Neill here? How imprudent ! Where have you 
concealed him? 

She. I've got 'em both in the kitchen, the ducks. 

Blanche. Bring Edmund here, and Shelah, dear, get those 
soldiers away. Let them take all the liquor they can carry, but 
have them go. 

She. Well, I'll do it, ma'am, since you wish; but if I had my 
way, all the liquor they'd get would be a kittle o' hot water over 
the lugs. (Exit R.j 

Blanche. I must warn Edmund of Sheil Burke. The grim 
clouds of war already gather. 

JEnter Edmund, R. 

Ed. Blanche, darling, what has happened? You look troubled. 
( Taking both her hands.) 

Blanche. I am glad and yet sorry you are here, Edmund. 
How rash to come at such a time 

Ed. I am here to protect you. But was it not Burke I saw 
leaving the house? And yet but now I left him on the hill ! 

Blanche. He it was, Edmund, and I fear that man. He has 
sworn vengeance on both of us, and I think he is not to be trusted 
with the secrets of the cause, so deeply does he hate you. 

Ed. Why, lady mine, you seem of Dooney's mind. This would 
be dangerous indeed. But yet it can not be. Sheil Burke is of 
too good Irish blood to be a traitor. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 15 

Blanche. O'Neill, I know him better than you. Remember, 
it was good old Irish blood whose treason first put Erin in her 
chains. Promise to watch him. 

Ed. Why, that I'll do right willingly. But now, Blanche, I 
can not remain long. Tell me why you sent for me. 

Blanche. To warn you that soldiers were here, and to beg 
you to pause in this rising, until you are assured of success. The 
Grovernment is aroused and determined. 

Ed. And so are we, Blanche. We're had wrong heaped on 
wrong to make us so. We are organizing all over the Island, with 
noble Lord Edward for leader, and if we once get together, Blanche, 
there will be either a free nation or a desert. We mean to do or 
die! 

Blanche. And so, Edmund, you are determined on this? 

Ed. Dear Blanche, could you wish me falter? 

Blanche. No, no, brave heart. It was my woman's fears that 
spoke. Go forth, my love, and God be with the right. 

Ed. And with that blessing I would defy a score of red-coats. 

Enter J) ooney followed by Shelah, R. 

DooNEY. Hurroo ! It's glad I be to hear that same, for there's 
two red spalpeens comin' up now. I'll take the fat felly with my 
shtick, and Shelah here has the poker for your honor to belt the 
other wid. 

Ed. (Smiling.) No, Dooney, the time is not yet ripe. You 
must retire. These fellows do not know me, and I can get rid of 
them. 

Dooney. Well, your honor for it. Come along, Shelah. 

[Exeunt Dooney and Shelah L. 

Blanche. Why do not you also retreat, O'Neill ? 

Ed. I will not leave you. Hush ! They are here. 

Music as before. Enter Sergeant and Corporal, R., tipsy 
with several bottles around their necks. 

Serg't. Attention sh-shquad ! {Hie. Hem.) 

Corp. (Hie ) Shquash ! {Hem.) 

Serg't. Corporal. 

Corp. Sergeant, you sh-shut your pipes. 

Serg't. You man there, what ish your Hirish name. (Hie.) 

Corp. Spit it out. 

Ed. Edmund O'Neill is my name, sir! 

Serg't. Then, in the Kick-King's name, you're a prishoner. 

Corp. Prishoner. (Hie.) 

Ed. By what right do you arrest a citizen without process of 
law. 



16 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Serq't. {Majestically.) Hem! We don't stand here (hie) 
to m-make 'splanations to tr-raitors. (^Hem !) 

Corp. Ter-raitorses ! (Rem.) 

Serg't. You just come along with hus, and bless your lucky 
heyes for our mercy in not shooting you on the spot; though 
you'll be sshot all the same, for you're a proved rebel, hand will 
certainly meet suspicion ! (Hem.) 

Corp. P-Pigeons. (Hie. Hem.) 

Ed. Men, I am no traitor, and you have no right to act thus, 
but to show that I am peaceably disposed I will go without resist- 
ance. Blanche, I must bid you adieu for a short time 

Blanche. Must you go with these men, Edmund? 

Ed. 1 prefer it. Till the time arrives to strike, we must do 
nothing to put these fellows on their guard. Fear you not — I 
am unknown, and will soon be free. Sergeant, I am ready. 

Serg't. Hall r-right. Corporal ! 

Corp. You bet. (Hie.) 

Serg't. Sh-shoulder bottles — arms I mean. Corporal, take 
the hadvance (hie), prishoner next, and hi'll bring us the re- 
resherves. March ! (Hem.) 

Corp. Marsh ! (Hem.) [Music as before. Exit Corporal, 
B, 1 E, followed by Edmund. 

Serg't. It's hall right, ma'am ; keep up your shpirits, like I 
do, for 'e'll be sh-shot sh-shure, (Hem) [Exit B, bottle to mouth. 

Blanche. Sinks down at table. Picture. 

SCENE IV. A Landscape in 1. 

Enter BuRKE, L. 

Burke. Now is my opportunity. The soldiers have taken 
the O'Neill to their camp. Before the brutes become sober, I will 
have information in the hands of their commander, upon which he 
will be held and tried. I'll take care that sufficient evidence be 
adduced to shoot or transport him. And then, Lady Blanche, 
maybe you'll not swallow your biting words ! Ha ! Here comes 
that fellow McHugh. (Looking L.) I must not be seen by him. 

[Exit B. 
Enter DooNEY and Kate, L. 

DooNEY. And so they took the Captain. 

She. Yes, Dooney, and Miss Blanche is frightened. Because 
they was drunk you know. 

Dooney. 0, the schwill-pigs. 

She. And I saw Shell Burke leaving the house, and it's think- 
ing I am, he's at the bottom of it. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 17 

DooNET. Faix its a bad 'un he is, as Murty obsarved to th« 
fresh egg at the tavern. But I'll git the b'yes down from the 
hill, and w;.rm their lugs if they try their divil's games on the 
chief. Shelah, if ye c'ud jist folly and say what's goin' on, it 
might help us. 

She. It's mysel' '11 do that same [X's to E.] But sure, 
you must be very prudent, Dooney. 

DooNEY. Prujent, is it Shelah? Did ye ever know an Irish- 
man as wasn't? It's our family failin'. Jist let me came across 
that fat sairgent, and won't I be prujent, me an' me bit o' shtick. 
(Music, ^^British Grenadier.'' Exeunt Dooney, L., whirling stick, 
and Shelah, R.) 

SCENE V. Murtauqh's Glen. A wild mountain pass, 5 G. 
In center, a camp fire. On R, of fire, two tents L. of fire a stack 
of guns. Logs of wood scattered; behind in tiers, to full depth of 
stage, practical rocks, behind which the patriot forces lie concealed. 
Group of soldiers, about six, some cooking at fire, some playing 
cards, and a sentinel pacing his beat on L. Captain Evelyn 
enters from tent, R, and speaks to BxVNKS, who is sitting on log, 
(C) cutting a twig. \_At the opening of this Scene a military 
drill can be introduced if desired; the extra soldiers should then 
be marched off.^ 

Capt. Banks, has Sergeant Tempest returned yet? 

Banks. (Rising.) Not yet, sir. 

Capt. If that fellow gets whisky he'll make a fool of himself. 
So if he brings liquor with him, spill it on the spot. 

Banks. Yes sir. 

Capt. You may tell him to take command of the detachment. 
I am going to Dunfoyle for instructions, and may be detained all 
night. Let that be no excuse to relax dutv, however. 

Banks. I will attend to what you say sir. [Exit Capt., L 1 
E. Sentinel salutes as he passes. 

Banks. Now if Tempest only brings enough liquor we'll have 
a jolly good spree, For all the Captain talks so strict, I know 
he'll have a fine time himself, and why shouldn't we enjoy our- 
selves in the enemy's country? Ha! Here comes Tempest. 
{Looking off R.) 

Enter Sergeant, Corporal and Edmund, R. 1 E. Soldiers 
gather around. 

Serg't. Command {hie) halt! The parade is dismished. 
(Hem.) 
OoEP. 'Missed. (Hem.) 



18 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Banks. Who have you got here, Tempest? 

Serg't. Banks, you m mis able private, don't be so familiar 
with your superior ofl&cer. {Hem.) Where's Captain? 

Banks. Gone to town. 

Serg't. {Hem.) Then, as a senior officer of this detachment 
(Jiic) I take command of the p-post. And, boys, to let you know 
what a blasted good kick — commander you've got {hie), just take 
these bottles an' make yourselves merry, like me {hie) and Gust 
here. {Hie.) 

GuNN. Here, I'm {hie) here! {Soldiers take bottles, produce 
cups, and begin drinlcing.) 

Serg't Corporal ! 

Corp. I'm a Briton {hie'), a heart of oak. 

Serg't. You're a hass ! 

Banks. {Drinking) Well, the Captain ordered all liquor to 
be spilled, and so spill it we will. He didn't say where or how. 

Ed. These fools will get tipsy and become turbulent, with- 
out an officer to control them. I must endeavor to slip away. 
(He retires and seats himself on log, R. Sentinel observes, crosses 
R, and paces up and down to his rear and R.^ 

Banks Now, I say. Sergeant, who've we got here? 

Serg't. Him, he's a traitor — the leader of the B-band. {Hem.) 
Just tie him, Banks, he m-mustn't eshcape. {Hie.) (Banks takes 
rope and ties Edmund's hands behind ) 

Ed. Men what does this mean ? I have done nothing. 

Banks. Well, we'll fix you so you won't, my fine fellow What 
band do you mean, Sergeant? 

Serg't. Never you m mind, I know hall about it. Its the 
band we're hafter, hand a friend o' mine will tell me where they 
meet an' hall their p -plans. {Hem.) 

Ed. {Aside.) Can this be true? Is there a traitor among us? 

Serg't. But I say, boys, drink once more to the king's {hie) 
health, hand d.damnition on his Highrish henemies. Are you 
all drunk ? {Hem.) {They nod.) Then we'll make this feller drink 
too. {Offering cup to Edmund.) Here now, take it, my fine {hie) 
fel; drink the K king's 'ealth. 

Ed. ( Warmly.) Go away. I am a gentleman, and no equal 
of yours I will report you to your officer, 

Serg't. R-report eh ! Blast my heyes if you d-don't drink, 
we'll sh-shoot you for a Hirish rebel. 

Ed. Give me the drink, (Sergeant offers cup to Edmund. 
He kicks it in the Sergeant's /ace. Chord.) 

Serg't. Oh murder ! Did you shee that ? The King of Hing- 
land is hinsulted in me. These are too much. You Hirish 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 1'8 

villain, you shall be shot at once. H'are you hall agreed? {Hem.) 

Omnes. Agreed ! 

Corp. ( Veiy drunk.) Greedy. (^Hem.) 

Serg't. Now, boys, I shay he's guilty, and the man as shays 
not 's no friend to me; ain't he guilty? (Hem.) 

Omnes. To be sure. 

Ed. Men are you mad? Of what am I guilty, save of re- 
buking this fellow's insolence? 

Banks (^Aside to Sergeant.) I guess he's right. Tempest. 
We'd better wait till the Captain returns. 

Serg't. {Hem.) 'E's a beastly Hirish traitor, and shall 
'ave just five minutes to say his prayers So, now, you mish'ble 
R-rebel, make your peace while we drink the K-king's 'ealth. 
i^Hem ) 

Corp. {Staggering up.) I'm healthy — 

Serg't. Jimmy Grust you're a hash. Now for drinking and 
praying. {Omnes drink.) 

Eiiter.SB.Bl,AR R, 1 E. Looks at Edmund, but affects not to 
know him. 

She. Oh, who's that ugly felly tied there wid his wings be- 
hind, like a dead chicken ? 

Serg't. He'll be a dead chicken in five {hie) minutes. We're 
going to shoot him for a traitor. You're the gal down at the 
'ouse, ain't you? 

She. No, I'm the gal that's here now. Shoot, is it? Faix 
that's right. An' ye must let me see it, b'yes, and we'll have a 
reg'lar wake. How's that b'yes? 

Banks. This girl's a trump ! What's a wake? 

She. Ye don't know what a wake is ! Oh, my, where did ye 
get your schoolin'? A wake is atin' and drinking, and dancin' 
and sich. 
• Serg't. Hall right. We'll have one, won't we, boys? Hoora! 

Omnes. Yes, yes, huzza ! ( While this goes on, Shelah toalks 
hack to Edmund, and, as sentry s hack is turned, says aside : 

She. Send me ofl^ for something, and make them wait till I 
get back. 

Ed. {Aside.) I'll try. {Aloud.) Well, boys, if 1 must die, 
I'll die like a man. And if you have a wake, have it before the 
shooting, and then I'll take part. 

She. Troth, if he wants to wake hisself, we'll let him, won't 
we b'yes? Ha! Hal Ha! 

Omnes. Certainly. {All laughing.) 

Banks. Bad news, boys; bottles all empty. {Holding up 
several.) 



20 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Ed. (Quickli/.) I can remedy that, boys, if this girl will be 
my messenger (7b Shelah.) Will you go and get a supply of 
old wine, if I direct you where ? 

She. How do I know where 'where' is ? 

Ed. Take the road you came, cross the bridge over the run, 
and follow the path up the hill In a mile you come to a house. 
There's a ring on my finger ; take it, show it to the old woman, 
and she'll give you anything. (^She takes ring.) Tell her to give 
you ten or a dozen of the green seal — mind, the GREEN seal; 
that's the brand will suit these follows best. 

She. (^Significantly.) I understand. I'll bring plenty, though 
I think half a dozen would do for this crowd. Now, b'yes, will 
ye wait for me ? I'll be back quicker nor ye think. 

Serg't Hirishwoman, they shall wait. (^Hem.) 

She. Now, don't fail, for I wouldn't miss the fun, no not even 
for a kiss from you, Sairgeut ! [Exit R., 1 E, Sergeant stagger- 
ing after her. 

Serg't. Hirish rebel, you're a very clever fel' (hie), but 
you've got to be shot, so think over your prayers while she's gone. 
(Hem.) 

Banks. I say, Tempest (draws Sergeant to L ; and aside 
to him), you know we're all a little tipsy, but I've had my eyes 
open, and I think there's something wrong. That girl is fooling 
us. She's a friend of the prisoner. I saw her whisper to him. 

Serg't. Why, blast my heyes, now I think, she's right from 
the house where we found him. (Hem.) 

Banks. Then mark : she's gone for a party to rescue him, and 
we're waiting for her. 

Serg't. My blasted heyes, Banks, I sees it hall now. (Aloud.) 
Here, men, attention ! Get your guns quick and fall in. (Men 
take guns, and form L of G, facing Edmund.) Now, youblarsted 
traitor, we see your trick, but it won't work. You die at once. 
(Hem.) (Music till end of act.) . • 

Ed (Standing up and facing them.) Butchers! would you 
murder a defenseless man? 

Serg't. Murder! No, but we'll treat you as we'll do all the 
King's enemies in this miserable country. 

Ed. Then I defy you all. Do what you will, cowards, my 
death will be amply avenged. I am a rebel, I am a traitor, I am 
an Irishman to the last. 

Serg't. That's your last say. Prime, men, — ready ! (hiz.) 
Aim ! ( The soldiers level at Edmund. Music.) 

Enter Shelah from R, among rocks 

She. Shtop, shtop ! The wine is here ! 



LAMBH DARRAOH. 21 

Serg't. Where? 

DoONEY. (^Running out i, with flag.) Lambh Darragh Aboo ! 
There ! ( Peasants rise from behind rocks, leveling guns at soldiers 
below. Should be about twenty. Dooney mounts rock in (7, and 
waves the green flag of Erin. Soldiers cower down; CORPORAL 
falls flat on his face near C, and Sergeant kneels upon him m 
an attitude of supplication. Dooney runs down to Edmund, cuts 
his fetters, and hands hrm the flag ; Edmund mounts log, and 
waves same triumphantly. DooNEY runs to Sergeant, and stands 
over him with shillelah. Music, " Wearing of the Green.") Tableau, 
END OF ACT. 



^OT II 



SCENE I. Same as Act I., Scene I. Music, ''Kathleen 
Mavourneen," for rise. Blanche discovered seated at Table, Grace 
walking about. 

Blanche. You are a very impulsive girl. Have you reflected 
seriously on the step you are about to take? 

Grace. Yes, and am more resolved than ever. 

Blanche {Aside.) Invincible, womanly obstinacy. (Aloud.) 
Then you are determined to allow him the control of your prop- 
erty. He is in the army. Think of the casualties that may 
occur. 

Grace. Mr. McShane, the attorney, should be here with the 
deeds even now. Eugene shall quit the army. 1 will not have 
him warring against my kindred. As for my paltry possessions, 
Blanche, the man that is worthy to be my husband must be worthy 
of my whole fortune. 

Blanche. 'Tis past the time. He does not seem to be in 
haste to have either you or the fortune. 

Grace. Blanche ! 

Blanche It is strange. He knew the hour ? 

Grace. (Impatiently.) Oh, knew it ! What a question. 

Blanche. He was to have been here at four. 'Tis nearly 
five. 

Grace. ( Walkinq nhout Aside.) To humiliate me thus I 
It is unendurable. Love heightens my pride, and makes my 
cheeks burn with a sense of insult. 



22 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Blanche. (Aside.) I think I can provoke her into being 
sensible. 

Enter McShane, Door L. ,., 

McShane. Aha ! Ladies, your most obedient servant. Late-*-^ 
late, I grant you. Lost to sight, but only for the moment. Ahem ! 
Slow, but sure. Ha ! ha ! No fault. Ahem ! 

Grace (^Tartly.) Have you prepared those settlements? 

McS. The parchment is inscribed according to directions. No 
fault. Ahem ! 

GrRACE. Then tear it up. 

McS. What ! 

Grace. T-e-a-r [spelling)^ tear it up. Can't you hear my 
words ? 

McS. The language was distinct — distinctly distinct. No 
fault. Ahem ! But, Miss, if I may be pardoned the observation — 

Grace. [Interrupting.) I don't want any law or argument. 

McS. Scoff at the law — the honorable profession of the law ! 
Ahem ! Why, England may as well attempt with bullrushes to 
dam up the Nile. 

Grace. Mr. McShane you are tedious. 

McS. Me? McShane? Tedious? Ahem! 

Grace. You. Take your parchments, please, and then take 
your leave. Your bill will be paid as soon as sent. 

McS. What an atrociously atrocious feminine female ! Ahem ! 
I'll make my bill six times as large. [Exit, angrily. Door L. 

Enter Captain Evelyn, Door L, meeting McShane. 

Capt. What did that seedy-looking fellow's presence mean? 

Blanche. It means that you have just lost £30,000, and that 
you are served right. 

Capt. [Smiling.) We shall not differ there, Miss Carbery. 
I am glad of it. My fortune is yet to be carved, and it must be 
done by myself Grace shall retain her fortune in her own hands. 
When such a deed is prepared I will sign it, but no other 

Blanche. Settle it between yourselves. As the world goes, 
you are both young fools. [Aside.) He's not such a bad fellow 
after all, though he is a British officer. [Exit Door R. 

Grace has seated herself^ with face averted, 
Capt. [Approaching her.) Dear Grace. 
Grace. [Coldly.) No apologies. 
Capt. Are you angry ? 
Grace. Angry? No. 
Capt. If I am to blame, will you not forgive me ? 



^ LAMBB DARRAGH. 23 

Grace. I wish I could forgive myself. 

Capt. For what ? 

Grace. My own folly. I thought lovers were all impatience. 
It's wonderful how soon they grow indiflfereat. 

Capt. May I explain ? 

Grace. Do not task your invention. 

Capt. {Reproachfully) Grace! Your friend's friend, Mr. O'Neill, 
was captured by some of my men in my absence. Had I known it 
he would have been released, and the men punished. But he was 
rescued by an armed band that overwhelmed my detachment. 
This is overt war. We must give these rebels a lesson. I have 
sent word to Major Mill ward to assist me, and I am hurrying back 
to act in concert with him. So you see I am victim to a com- 
bination of accidents. 

Grace. That exposed me to the laughter of my cousin and 
the gossip of a pettifogging attorney. 

Capt. It need not matter. 

Grace It does matter. It makes it appear as if I were urg- 
ing — as if — oh ! you have wounded me beyond atonement. Were 
it to do again — 

Capt. And if it were ? 

Grace. I should know the value of my liberty, and not part 
with it so rashly. 

Capt. Do you say this seriously? 

Grace. Of course I do. 

Capt. Then you leave me no course but to restore it to you 
at once. I must not hesitate — I dare not. I should falter, and 
forget what is due to us both. From this moment, Miss Court- 
ney, you are free. (Pause. Aside.) She does not speak. [Aloud.) 
I shall never cease to hope you may find that happiness with oth- 
ers denied you with me 

Grace. Nobody will give you credit for sincerity, Mr. Evelyn. 

Capt. Why should my sincerity be doubted? 

Grace. Because it is not in nature for any man to believe 
that woman's happiness could be conferred by a rival 

Capt. I can have no rival, for I have already renounced all 
claims. You think I have sinned beyond atonement. Let me 
make the only atonement in my power, by offending no more, 
[^Mnsic, Piano. Exit slowly. Door L. 

Grace. ( Aside. Not knowing he has gone.) How wayward 
some people are. I have gone too far. Why don't he speak, the 
great goose? (Aloiid. Lookhig around.) Eugene' He is gone ! 
(Calling) Eugene! No, he has not the slightest notion of com- 
ing back. So much the better — I am glad of it. I am free — 



24 LAMBH DARRAQH. 

free to go where I like, do what I like. This is glorious ! { Pausesf 
then sinks down at table, sohhing.) Eugene! Eugene! 

SCENE II. Country Road near Dunfoyle. (First Grooves.) 
Enter Dooney and Shelah, L 

DooNEY. When we get to the bridge, Shelah, T'll take to the 
hills, and ye can go home alone. 

She. Is it ai'eard ye think I am? The sodgers is more afeard 
nor 1 am. Ye played the divil wid 'em this time, anyhow. 

Dooney. Troth, an' we can do it agin. Be jabbers, I'll put 
me an' my bit o' blackthorn agin seventeen o' them, wid all their 
red coats and goold buttons. 

She It's a modest man ye are. Mr. McHugh. 

Dooney. Well, it's sorry 1 am that Masther Edmund would 
not let us give it the Reddies the same as tbey was afther treat- 
in' him. 

She. He knows best, Dooney. You'll have your chance yet 

Dooney. I say, Shelah, did ye mark how I peppered the Sair- 
gent and Corporal, bad lu^-k to 'em. Did ye hear the fat 'un holly? 
And the lane one, he squiggled about like a schnake ! (Both laugh.) 

She. Troth, Dooney, y6 war a little rough. T must hurry 
back to my poor lady, who 11 be breaking her heart, so she will, till 
she hears the news about the Captain ; and I know you wouldn't 
have her suflfer. 

Dooney. Good luck to her purty eyes — not a minute. But, 
whist! Shelah. (Looks L ) Bad cess to me, if there ain't the 
fat Sairgent and lane Corporal riding along the road. 

She. Biding? 

Dooney. Yis, in Adam's carriage — five spokes to each wheel. 
Faix, Shelah, they don't walk so shtiff and straight now widout 
their guns. Let's lay up, and see what they're afther 

She. It's no fair thing, be sure. (Music, Gens D'Armes. 
They conceal themselves L, as Sergeant and Corporal enter L. 
They are unarmed and look wilted.) 

Serg't. • Jeemes Gust, I'm blessed if I see how we're to walk 
to Bally<^annon this evening. I never fpel so sore in all my days. 

Corp. I've not got a 'ole bone in my body I want to go 'ome. 

Serg't. ( With dignity.) JNo, Jeemes, not till we've had ven- 
geance OD that Hirishman. Honly let me run across 'im hagain, 
Jeemes! (Ahem! 

Dooney. (Aside.) Oh, hone! Ye blackguard, ye'll soon 
have your wish. 



I 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 25^ 

Corp. Eh, what's that? Did you hear anything? Oh, I want 
to go 'ome ! 

Serg't. B'or shame, Jeemes. It was only the wind in the 
hedge Why arent ye brave like raeV (Ahem!) 

Corp. I'd rather be 'ome. 

Serg't. Well, come along. This letter, Jeemes (holding up 
letter), this letter will do the business for the hinfernal rebels, 
and as for that bloody Hirishman with the stick — 

Corp. [Rubbing himself ) Stick? Ay, there's the rub! 

Serg't. Honly let me meet him hagain face to face, and then, 
Jeemes — 

DoOMEY. (Comes up unseen and snatches letter.) Well, what 
then / 

Corp. Oh, Lord, I want to go 'ome. 

Serg't. Oh. good Hirishman, don't be 'ard on us. We're 
not fighting now ; we've got no arms. Give me my letter and 
let me go 

Corp. Yes, give it to him. 

DooNEY. Oh, ye re a purty pair o' paceful birds, ye are reg- 
ular doves. Now, whist ! both o' yees. Put your dirty noses be- 
hind ye, and take the back track on the trot, or I'll give ye a big- 
ger dish <>' blaekthorn soup nor ye got down in the glen. 

Serg't But we can't go back, Mr. Hirishman. The Cap- 
tain would break us if we did. 

DooNEY. ( Threatening vnth stick.) And I'll break ye if ye 
shtay 

Serg't. But won't you give back my letter? 

DooNEY. Did ye hear the like o' that for impidence? So ye 
want the letter? 

Serg't. Yes, hindeed. 

Corp Do give it to bim. 

DoONEY. Well, I'll lether ye. Sbelah. 3^ou give it to the lane 
one. (DooNEY beat^ off Sergeant L, who runs off roaring. 
Corporal falh on his knees in terror; Shelah takes him by 
ear^ and leads him off L. DooNEY re-enters and beats him off, 
and again re enters L ) 

She. Ain't yo afraid o' trouble, Dooney? 

DooNEY. Afeard is it? I wouldn't be afeard iv a family o' 
sich 

She But ye'll be a marked man, Dooney? 

DooNEY. An' why won't ye be a marked man, Shelah? But 
what's in this letter? Oh, I see. (Opening letter.) 

She. What is it? 



26 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

DooNEY. Why, it's writing. Bad luck to the pothooks and 
hangers. I wish I war a schoolmaster. 

She. Ye'd better take that to Masther Edmund, Dooney. 
Mebbe it consarns ye all. 

Dooney Troth, ye never spake 'ceptin' it's for the best, She- 
lah ; and I'll never larn the right 'till you're always by me, wid 
McHugh for your surname. 

She Go away wid your blarney {Looks L.) But here 
comes Master Edmund and some of the boys. I'll leave you 
now, for I must give Miss Blanche the news. [Exit R. 

Music. Enter L^ Dermott, Blake and Peasants, followed by 

Edmund. 

Ed. Friends, our first encounter with the foe has been blood- 
less, but all the honors lie with us. The achievement will carry 
hope and courage to every Irish heart. 

Dermott. Give us a chance and we will do more. 

Ed. You will soon have chances. I must not forget to thank 
you for the service you have rendered me in person. 

Der. It was Dooney that brought us to the rocks. 

Ed. To Dooney, and that brave girl, Shelah, and to you all, I 
am indebted ^ But, Dooney, you disappeared so suddenly, we 
feared you had deserted. [SmiUny ) 

Dooney. I don't sphell my name with a Burke. 

Der. What do you mean by that ? 

Dooney I know what I mane, but never mind. Here's some 
ink paths for your honor to thravel. I wouldn't rade it mesel', 
because it might be private. {Gives letter.) 

Ed. {Reading.) Ha! Where o;ot you this, Dooney? 

Dooney. The red fatty and the lane reddy was I akin' it along 
the road, and I taked it from 'em. 

Ed. Friends, this is news that concerns us all. {Reads.) ^ To 
Major Millward, R. A , nt Ballygannon. Sir: — / have the 
honor to apprise you that a squad of my men has been surprised 
hy rebels^ who took their arms and released them. They are now 
in the hills west of Dunfoyle. I have dispatched to Wicklow for 
men who will be here in the morning. Bring your force this way. 
I will also move against them, and we will bag them without trouble. 
"Eugene Evelyn, Captain, R. A " 

Der. So the opportunity comes to us without seeking. 

Ed. I would like to attack Millward's force before they can 
join, but I dare not. I would I knew what our friends in Dublin 
are doing. {Crosses to R.) 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 27 

DoONEY. Faix, sir, if we can't hear any news from abroad, 
let us make some for ourselves 

Ed. No ; we can not yet come to open rupture. Fortunately 
none of you is known to the soldiers except Dooney and myself. 
Has any one seen Sheil Burke since morning ? 

Der. Not since he left us 

Ed. Men, I do not like to speak ill of him ; but his conduct 
has been suspicious, and we must be cautious. 

Dooney. I'll caution him, av I meet him. 

Ed, 1 have reason to fear that our cave will be searched. We 
must remove the arms and amunition, and each conceal his own. 
See to this at once, men And now, for a time, farewell. 

Omnes. Farewell, Captain. 

Ed. Dooney, come with me. [Jfwsic. Exeunt Edmund 
AND Dooney, R, Blake, Dermott and Peasants, L 

SCENE III. Same as Scene I. 

Blanche and Shelah Discovered. 

Blanche. Edmund so near death ! 

She Ye may say so. One little mishtake and 'twould have 
been a different shtory, like Booney's hen that had the chickens 
barrin that they kem out ducks. 

Blanche. And there was no blood spilled? 

She. Sorra thing was shpilled, miss, 'ceptin' whisky. 

Blanche. I am glad of that; I am glad of that But Ed- 
mund will be marked for vengeance. He said he would come 
to me ? 

She. Troth, ye know it without tellin'. As soon as he'd seen 
his men safe, he'd be here, he said. 

Blanche. Go, Shelah, and look for him. See that he is not 
watched or pursued. 

She. I'll do that same, ma'am. {Aside.) I know my Dooney 
'11 be with him. [Exit Door L. 

Blanche. There is a dread upon my heart. I love my coun- 
try and hope to see her free, but fear o'ermasters patriotism. 

Re-enter Shelah, Door L. 

She. Masther Edmund's come, ma'am. 
Blanche. Show him here. 

Enter Edmund, D L. Exit Shelah, D L. 

Ed. He needs no guide to you, dear Blanche. 



28 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Blanche. Dear Edmund, I am faint at heart when I remem- 
ber the peril you escaped. 

Ed. These are times to try us all, Blanche. You must be 
hardened. 

Blanche I will try to steel myself. But, assuredly, the 
military will pursue you for this day's work. I have directed 
Shelah to watch that you are not traced here. 

Ed. (Smiling.) Dooney is with me, and she will hardly watch 
anything but him. But the military will not come here, unless 
guided by that villain Burke 

Blanche. He would do it, O'Neill He hates you, and will 
always be upon your trail. 

Ed. Well, we will yet meet, and then let him beware. But I 
must conceal till the leaders in Dublin say "strike. ' 

Blanche. How if these leaders themselves be discovered ? 

Ed. Then, Blanche, I claim fulfillment of your promise of 
marriage, and we will fly to America. If there is no chance to 
bring freedom here, we must even go to it. 

Blanche. What noise is that? (Music— -piano.) 

Ed (Runs R. j Footsteps and clash of arms. (Runs L.) 
And here, too. Am I betrayed ? 

Blanche. Oh, heaven ! 1 fear so. 

Enter Captain Evelyn and file of soldiers, D, L, followed hy 
Burke ; Banks and file of soldiers also entering R, I, E. 

Burke. Captain, there is your man. That is the arch traitor 
of all. 

Ed. Lying reptile. The arch traitor is there (pointing to 
Burke). You, the spy, the perjured coward. 

Burke. Ha. (Draws pistol. Evelyn seizes his hand.) 

Capt. Softly, friend. We are greatly indebted for your serv- 
ices, but a man who acts as you have done must not be nettled 
at an epithet Mr. O'Neill, 1 regret that duty compels me to 
take you in custody. 

Ed. I am obliged for your courtesy, and ready to go with you. 
Bear up, Blanche. 

Burke. Edmund, they will have your life. 

Ed. Never fear. I am in the hands of an officer and gentle- 
man, and will certainly have a trial. 

Capt. He will be fairly tried. Miss Carbery. 

Ed. Your hear, Blanche. Be brave. 

Capt. Come, men, night is falling, and we must hasten back 
to Dunfoyle. Banks, yoif must hurry to Major Millward at Bally- 
gannon. Tell him to come to Dunfoyle in the morning. 

Banks. I will attend, sir. 



I 



LAMBH DARRAOH. 29 



Blanche. These men are tigers. They will have your blood. 
Do not go, Edmund. (^Kneeling to Captain.) Have mercy — 
mercy ! 

Capt, Miss Carbery, do not distress yourself in this manner. 

Ed. Be calm, Blanche. 

Blanche. He will not answer He turns away. Edmund, 
Edmund, you will be myrdered. (Rises and grasps him.) You 
shall not go. They shall not tear you away. Ah! (She faints. 
Captain Evelyn takes her to a seat.) 

Ed. I can not bear this. Take me away before she revives. 

Capt. See to her, Mr. Burke. 

[Exeunt Capt., Soldiers and Edmund, L, D. 

Blanche. (Reviving.) They are gone. What will be the 
end of this? 

Burke. (Standing R of Blanche.) Yes, they are gone. 
Now Blanche, do you know what your lover will come to ? 

Blanche. (Rising and taking stage L.) Wretch, I will not 
speak to you. 

Burke. (Following.) You had better curb your tongue, my 
lady. It has already been too free, and I am. not patient. I will 
tell you what is in store for your precious lover. There will be 
a court martial to-morrow. The times require haste. Edmund 
O'Neill will be tried in the morning and shot before sundown. 

Blanche. I will not listen to you further. (Crosses R.) 

Burke. Ah, but you will — you must. So much for him. As 
for you, Blanche Carbery, the more you scorn me the stronger 
my love for you You must forget this fellow, for, by fair means, 
or foul, you shall be my wife. 

Blanche. (R Proudly.) Sheil Burke, you have yet to 
know me. Sooner than be your wife. I'd die at your feet. 

Burke. But I'll not let you die. If you value your freedom, 
drop this nonsense, Blanche, and remember the facts. I have you 
completely in my power. 

DoONEY enters quietly^ L, unobserved hy BuRKE. 

Blanche. Sheil Burke, you do not intimidate. I command 
you to leave this house. 

Burke Woman, are you mad? Your only champion has 
gone to his death. 

DooNEY Mishter Burke, savin' your presence, that's a lie. 

Burke. Ha! fool, dare you interfere? Then take this. 
(Chord. Burke takes stage L, turns and fires pistol at Dooney. 
Shelah at same time runs on i, behind Burke, and throws up 
his arm.) 



30 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

DOONEY. And you take this. {Chord. Strikes down Burke 
with stick. Blanche sinks info Shelahs arms ) 
Picture. Music forte till change. 

SCENE IV. Wood in First Gtrooves. 

Enter Burke R. 

Burke. Foiled again by that lout ! But I'll have vengeance 
on them. Now to Dunfoyle, where they try O'Neill at drum- 
head court-martial. That will end in death — death before the sun 
goes down this day. Then to have this fellow Dooney McHugh 
sent after his master. I'll watch for him in Dunfoyle. Hell be 
there. And then, Blanche! Once I wanted her for love ; now 
'tis for hate — for black, grinning hate. Oh, to see her cheek 
grow pale, and her form grow thin, and her step grow slow, day 
by day ; to hear her sighs and moans, sweeter to my ears than 
music. And I'll do it — I'll do it yet, my lady. [Exit L. 

Enter Dooney and Shelah, R, both very doleful. 

She. Ah, poor Miss Blanche! poor Master Edmund ! What 
a world this is ! 

Dooney. It's a black ho^. 

She. (Sobhing.) The men are all villains. 

Dooney. Yis. They are 

She. And the women are all fools. 

Dooney. You're right. They are 

She. (^Indignantly.) I mane they're fools to think of the 
likes of you. 

Dooney. Don't fly out at me, Shelah. because I'm your friend. 
You proved a man, so you did, down at the glen. 

She. You didn't think I was angry with you, Dooney ? 

Dooney. (^Laughing.) I knowed better. But I always pur- 
tend to a girl to mind every syllable that drops from her purty 
lips ; then you can laugh in your sleeve at her. 

She. Indeed 1 

Dooney. Yes. You see a young girl's talk is like the summer 
breeze ; it's soothin' enough, but it couldn't bend a twig 

She. (^Aside.) Oho, sir! Wait till I get a chance to soothe 
you, and see if you don't bend. 

Dooney. Well, come along, Shelah ; if we don't hurry down 
to Dunfoyle, we will miss Masther Edward's thrial. 

[Exeunt L. Music, "Exile of Erin." 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 31 

SCENE V. Court-room arranged for a Military Court- Mar- 
tial. Judges' table R, near 2 E, at which are seated Major 
Mill WARD, Captain Evelyn, and several officers. Prisoner's 
dock, containing Edmund, L of C. Sergeant Tempest as 
witness. Corporal and Banks seated back. On L a space 
railed off for spectators, among whom an Dooney and Shelah. 
Table G at which McShane is seated. Armed soldiers standing 
as guards through the Court. 

Capt. Proceed, Sergeant. You say that the rescuers of the 
prisoner were a regular armed band? 

Serg't. Hindeed they was, sir. Harmed with guns and sticks. 

Dooney. (Aside.) He ain't forgot the shtick. 

Major. We must have silence in the court. 

Dooney. (Aside.) But no fair play. 

Capt. And they carried a flag? 

Serg't. A green Hirish flag, your honor. 

Dooney. (Aside.) He marked the green sale. 

Serg't. He took the flag himself from the 'ands of a murder- 
ous Hirishman. 

Dooney. (Aside.) Maneing me. Oh, the spalpeen ! 

Capt. Sergeant, who seemed to be commander of these forces? 

Serg't. Why, this man, sir — this prisoner. They called him 
captain, and he ordered them to keep back behind the rocks, so 
that we could not know them. 

Capt. That will do, Sergeant. You may stand aside. 

Major. Perhaps the prisoner may desire to question the 
witness 

Ed. This man was drunk as a fool — 

Dooney. (Aside ) Or a lord. 

Serg't (Ahem!) Who, sir? Me, sir? 

Ed. Therefore I have no questions to ask. 

Capt. Stand aside. Sergeant (He leaves stand.) I will call 
Corporal Gust. (Corporal rises, looking scared.) 

Major. One moment, Captain. The testimony of all the wit- 
nesses seems to be in perfect accord, and unless the prisoner has 
rebutting evidence, it is useless to proceed further. Have you 
any testimony, prisoner ? 

Ed. None. (The judges consult together.) 

Dooney. (Aside.) They're makin' their heads as thick as 
praities in a hill, but there's not as much male in em. 

Major. Have you no friend, no witness, at all, to call in your 
behalf? 



32 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Ed. None. 

DoONEY. (^Leaping over railing and throwing down his hat.) 
Begging all your worships' pardon, that's a lie ! Youll not say 
you've got no friend, Master Edmund, while I'm alive. 

Ed. My poor fellow ! you expose yourself without aiding me. 

DooNEY, I don't care If you die, I can die with you 

McShane. (Arising.) (Ahem.) I am here, your honors — 

Major. Who is this ? Another culprit ? 

McShane. Culprit? (Ahem.) T am McShane sir; the bar- 
rister, sir. No fault. (Ahem.) {To Edmund ) I^ear nothing ; 
I'll be your rampart — your aegis. (Aloud.) Of what are we ac- 
cused ? We ask it in the name of the great — ahem ! 

Major. What do you ask, sir ? 

McShane. We do, sir ; yes, sir. We ask it in the name of 
the great — 

Major. What ! 

McShane. The great British Constitution, sir. Ahem. No 
fault. 

Major. Is this man mad ? 



McShane. Me, sir? McShane, sir? Mad, sir 



Capt. He asks the charge against the prisoner. 

Major. Then why couldn't he say so ? Mr. O'Neill, do you 
wish this attorney to plead for you ? 

Ed. I do not. 

Dooney. We don't want any liars. 

McShane. Reject me? Me? McShane? Ahem. No fault. 
Then I leave you ; yes, I leave you, sir ; in your condign ignorance, 
sir ; to ignobly perish, sir. 

Major, Remove this intruder. 

Serg't. Barrister — bounce. (Leads McShane out through 
C D, and re-enters.) 

Dooney. (To Edmund ) Lave the plaintiff's case to me. I'll 
argy it. (Aloud.) Now your honor, 1 11 tell you all about it. 
Master Edmund's not to blame at all. It was all me 

Shelah. (In audience.) That's my Dooney. 

Major* Silence, woman. 

Dooney, I'm not a woman, Major ; you see I ran across the 
fat Sairgent — 

Serg't Oho ! 

Dooney. That's him. Oho. And I had a bit of stick with 
me, and by the way of a joke — 

Major. A joke? • 

Dooney. Yis, Major. (Laughs.) By the same token I cracked 
it on him. Oho. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 33 

Major. The joke? 

DoONEY. No, your honor, the shtick. 

Major. Then you assaulted him ? 

DooNEY. Salted him ? Faix, T did ; and peppered him, too. 

Serg't. Major, he maltreated his gracious majesty, the King, 
in my person. 

Major. Young man, why did you do it? 

DooNEY. Do what, your worship ? 

Major. Do what you did. 

DooNEY. I didn't. 

Major. Didn't what? 

DooNEY. Do what I didn't. 

She. (Aside.') That's him, again. 

Major Silence. Sergeant, take charge of this fellow ; we'll 
attend to his case presently. 

Ed. Grod bless you, my faithful friend. You have sacrificed 
yourself for me. 

DooNEY. You just keep up your heart, M;ister Edmund. 
There's more boys nor me that would die for you. (Sergeant 
taps Mm on the shoulder.') Lave off your hands, you omadhawn. 
( Walks hack to G D.) Old Ireland forever, and down with the 
red-coats. [Exit C, D, followed by Sergeant. 

She. Hurroo ! (^Peasants murmur approhation.) 

Major. (^Sternly.) If that i>^ repeated, I will clear this room 
at the point of the bayonet Now, what have you to say, pris- 
oner, why the court should not proceed to sentence? 

Ed First of all, I protest against the outrage of a martial- 
court. I am no soldier, but a citizen of this county. If I have 
transgressed the laws, why am I denied a jury of my peers? 

\^Re-enter Sergeant, C, D.] 

Major. Prisoner at the bar, it seems incumbent on me to re- 
mind you that the unlawful acts of such as yourself, in arming and 
inciting insurrection, have made it necessary to proclaim martial 
law You are therefore fairly within our jurisdiction. 

Ed. Have I been fairly tried? I was arrested only last even- 
ing, and this morning am hurried into court, without an opportu- 
nity to consult counsel, or summon witnesses. 

Major. The disturbed state of the country makes summary 
proceedings not only justifiable, but necessary. 

Ed. I was not to blame yesterday. The affair was brought 
about by a dastardly attempt upon my life by the drunken fool 
who just testified. 

Serg't. Who, sir! Me, sir? (^Ahem.) 



34 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Major. Silence, Sergeant. 

Serg't. {Humbly.') Yes, sir. 

Ed. Therefore the rescue was justified. 

Major. It appears that you had an armed band, carrying what 
you style a national flag, which overpowered and disarmed a de- 
tachment of the King's troops. 

Ed. But offered no violence. 

Serg't. That's a hinfamous not so. Hi am sore yet from the 
beating I got. 

She. {Aside.') You'll be made sorer, you blackguard. 

Major. Silence in the court. Prisoner, in all kindness, let 
me say it is useless to argue against an admitted fact. Have you 
aught further to say ? 

Ed. It is useless to speak. You have me in your power, and 
I can perceive that your minds are fixed. Work your wills, gen- 
tlemen, and may your consciences never trouble you. My offense 
is love of country. Your greatest virtue is the same. Strange 
is it, that what is noble and praiseworthy in other lands, should 
in poor Ireland doom her sons to death. 

Major. Your views are perverted. My country should be 
your country. 

Ed. I say it is false. You have ground us down to the dust 
— stripped us of all save honor. 

Major. You argue like a true rebel. 

Ed. Since what you call a rebel, means an Irishman with 
enough manhood to stand by his own kin and country, I am one. 
It is my boast — my glory. 

Major. Prisoner at the bar, your crime is not only clearly 
proven, but by yourself admitted and justified. We have no de- 
sire to see you suffer But your talents and courage make you 
a dangerous man, and it is necessary to punish you, to save your 
dupes from destruction. 

Ed. I thank you for the flattering unction, but waive it all 
and ask for sentence {Music, ^'- Exile of Urin," piano, fill Cur- 
tain. ) 

Major. The sentence of the court is that you be conducted 
back to prison, and be there kept guarded and in irons, until four 
o'clock this day, and at that hour that you be shot to death with 
musketry, and may Heaven have mercy on your soul. (Tableau.) 

ACT DROP. 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 35 



^OT III, 

SCENE 1. Same as Act 1, Scene I. {Music, ''Kathleen 
Mavourneen.") Grace discovered seated L of Table, Siielah 
standing R of Table. 

Shelah. It's not for an ignorant girl like me to be giving 
advice to a lady like you, Miss Grace ; but I don't like to see you 
give way so Here's poor Miss Blanche has cried herself sick, 
but she's got cause to, for Master Edmund's going to be shot. 
You must keep up, if 'tis only for her sake. I'm sure if I was 
you, ma'am, I'd forget and forgive ; for 'tis only a bit of a love 
quarrel afther all. 

Grace. No, Shelah ; we had no quarrel. 

She. No ? Then how kem the match to be broken ? 

Grace. How can one explain a foolish trifle ? 

She. If it's a foolish trifle, why don't a sensible lady like you, 
Miss Grace, give it up ? 

Grace. Yes. a trifle to all the world beside ; but such trifles 
influence the whole lives of the actors in them, haunting us day 
and night, giving shapes of sorrow to our dreams, and bringing 
upon us cares as real, as wearing as any which afflict the desolate. 

She. (Goes to door L ; looks out.) Miss Grace, here is the 
gentleman, himself. Just stand back, till I say a word with him. 

Grace. {Crosses back L.) As many as you wish, Shelah. 
He does not come to see me. 

Enter Captain, Door L, not seeing Grace. 

Captain. Where is your mistress, my girl ? 

She. Miss Grace, you mane, sir ? 

Capt. No ; Miss Carbery. Tell her I have come to say fare- 
well. 

Grace. (Aside, starting.) Farewell ! 

She. Why, where are you going, sir ? 

Capt. To America I have exchanged into a marching regi- 
ment, ordered to Canada. I could not remain here But, before 
going, I wished to convey to your lady my deep sorrow for what 
I was compelled to do against her friend Mr. O'Neill. 

She. But do you really wish to go, sir ? 

Capt. Why not ? Here I have now nothing to live for. There 
I may at least find something to die for. 

Grace. (Aside.) America. No ! No ! No ! 

She. I wouldn't go quite so far to look for death, if I was you, 



36 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

sir. It'll come time enough. Maybe you can find something at 
home worth dying for— or living for. 

Capt. What do you mean ? 

She. Miss Grace. 

Capt. (Aside.) Grace ! Can she have — but no, no. I must 
not allow myself to think of that. (^Aloud) I am nothing to 
her, my girl. 

She. You can't tell without trying. I'm something of a girl 
myself, sir, and know what they are. Why don't you make love 
to her ? 

Capt. Make love? I can not Love is not made ; it grows. 
And the soil is the human heart. ( Turns aside affected, hiding 
his face with his hand ) 

She. Well, Mr. Captain, I don't think too much water makes 
the soil any better, Ha ! ha ! And, Miss Grace, don't you say 
the same ? [Exit D, R. 

Capt. Grace ! here ! 

Grace (Coming down B..) It seems incredible. 

Capt. You almost doubt that I am going ? 

Grace. Almost ? I can not believe it 

Capt. The doubt will soon be set at rest. I came to say fare- 
well. 

Grace. Why do you leave your country ! 

Capt. (Aside.) I must not linger here. I shall lose myself. 
(Aloud.) To escape a life of wretchedness at home. 

Grace. You ? With such right to hope for honors ? 

Capt. There is nothing here for me but bitterness. I am 
glad we have met again. Miss Courtney, that I may relieve myself 
of a reproach. When I last saw yuu, I was abrupt — rude For- 
give me ; and farewell. 

Grace. Mr. Evelyn, am I concerned in this self-inflicted 
exile ? 

Capt. Of what avail to speak of such things now ? 

Grace. This is the crisis of my life. I must be just I can 
not dissemble. :^Is it, then, on my account you go ? 

Capt. Why do you search me thus ? 

Grace. We are free now, and I may speak I cast aside all 
scruples ; for I will not have the thought hereafter that I did you 
an injustice. Mr. Evelyn, I have been wrong. My pride was hurt, 
and in hasty anger I spoke rashly. I expected submission, for I 
was accustomed to have my will. Your abruptness stunned me 
How whole lives are wrecked in moments of sudden passion I 
Forgive me. Let what happen — we must think kindly of each 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 37 

other. Do not leave your native land Do not condemn me to 
the remorse of feeling it was I who drove you away. 

Capt. You can save me —you, Grace, alone. Do not speak — 
my heart is too full to hear the thrilling tones ; but with eyes 
averted to hide their forgiviDg, generous tears, give me your hand 
— 'twill be a token of pardon and hope. (5e kneels. She slowly 
extends her hand.) 

Enter Shelah, Door R. 

She. (^Aside.') Love is never made, eh ? It grows. Ahem! 
(Coughs. They see her. Evelyn rises smiling.) Miss Grace, 
I'm sorry to disturb you, but I'm glad to see you both so happy. 

Capt. We have much to thank you for, my girl. 

She. I'm so pleased you think so, sir ; for Miss Blanche has 
sent me to you, to try and get a pardon for Edmund O'Neill. 

Grace. Ah, Eugene, do, do. Mr. O'Neill is a noble young 
gentleman, and as you have relatives in the Home Office, your in- 
fluence might accomplish much. 

Capt. I am hardly so sanguine as you. Bu<", Grace, your re- 
quest was granted before asked. As some reparation for my 
share in the capture of O'Neill, I have forwarded strong docu- 
ments asking for his pardon. T even persuaded Major Millward 
to sign them. But, Grace, if I succeed I shall claim from you 
a precious gift. 

Grace. From me? A gift from me for saving Edmund? Oh, 
say it. 

Capt. (Putting his arm about her.) I shall merely say, Grace. 

She. Miss Grace ! Miss Grace ! 

Grace. Well, Shelah? 

She. Do you go to America ? 

Capt. (Smiling.) No. America comes to her. 

Grace. You hear? He gives up one quarter of the globe 
for me. 

Capt. 'Twere nothing to give up the whole world for you, 
without whom the whole world were a desert to me. (Picture. 
Music, '■^Kathleen Mavourneen.'^) 

SCENE II. A Street in Dunfoyle. (\st G.) 

Enter Dooney, R, looking disconsolate. He is muffled, and has hat 
down over his eyes. 

Dooney Musha, Dooney, ye villain, don't be shakin' your 
h*ad and be gettin' heavy about the heart, when ye know so much 
depinds on ye. Oh, hone, 'twill be a sad day for all of us if the 



38 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

murderin' devils make away wid our chief. There's the poor 
lady, Blanche — it'll be the breakin' iv her shwate heart, and I'd 
rather have my own head laid open than have the tear in her eye. 
And Shelah, faix, I know she'll never look at me ag'in if I don't 
do something for Master Edmund. I know it's not much iv a 
man I am, for ever since the red captin' said, *'shot to death" 
to him, there's been a big lump o' lead in my lungs. Well, the 
b'yes is all comin' to town, and we'll see what we can do. Here's 
some o' them now. 

Enter Dermott and Blake, L, muffled for disguise. 

Der. Well, Dooney, is it you? 

DooNEY. Faith, I doubt it. I'm not myself at all. I've lost 
myself ever since the trial, and won't be seen ag in till we have 
the Captain among us once more 

Blake. But, Dooney, how did you manage to get away from 
the red-coats ? 

Dooney. Do you think the guard-house is made that could 
hold me? Don't bother me now about myself It s the Captain 
we must be thinking of The boys is meetin' beyont at O'Leary's. 
Ye d better be gettin' down there, and I'll jine you in a whiflF. 
Be off now. 

Der. Don't be long, Dooney. We can't waste the time. 
[Exeunt Dermott and Hoban, R. 

Dooney. Here comes Shelah, and she mustn't see I feel bad, 
for she looks blue enough herself, poor creature. {Looks R and 
sings. Song introduced.) 

Enter Shelah, L. 

She. Oh, Dooney, darlin', how can you be afther singin' so, 
and the poor masther to be shot in a few hours ? 

Dooney. (^Affecting gayety) Shot, is it? Arrah, now, who 
says he's goin' to be shot? 

She. (^Shaking her head, sadly.) Ah, Dooney, it's not my- 
sel' you're foolin'. You're not so light as ye'd make me belaive. 
My poor lady sent me down to get the news, but since I've heard 
he's to be kilt so soon, it's afeard I am to tell her, for I know the 
poor thing'll break her heart, she will, and so will I. ( Weeping.) 

Dooney. Now don't, darlint, don't. Why can't ye thry and 
be cheerful like me. (^Brushing tears from his eyes.) Listen, 
Shelah, an' I'll tell ye the truth The b'yes are gettin' together, 
and we're goin' to free the chief or die tryin'. 

She. (^Sobbing.) Yes, but what can ye do wid the sodgers? 

Dooney. What did we do wid 'em yesterday? We'll lick 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 39 

'em ag'in. We'll learn all about the ould abbey where they've 
stuck the O'Neill, and then we'll have a try against its walls. 

She. You know, Dooney, it's not mysel' 'ud want to put ye in 
harm's way, but if the young masther was to die, and nothin' be 
done to save him, I'm sure L'd never want to lay eyes on you ag'in. 

Dooney. And I'd be ashamed to show myself, so you see we're 
both of a mind And now, Shelah, if we do succeed, the coun- 
try'll be too hot to hold us. I know what the masther intends — 
he'll marry his swateheart and go to Amerikay. I must lave, too 
Will you go wid me ? 

She. (^Demurely.') I'd be afeard to stay here all alone. 

Dooney. Hurroo ! It's my own girl ye are, ye jewel. And 
when we get to Amerikay, darlint, where they're all fine people, 
yell be an eddicated lady, and I — faix, maybe I might be an al- 
derman. But before we go, I'd like one good sladder at the red 
spalpeens. 

She. What do you mane, Dooney, talkin' of fightin', and me 
depending on you? 

Dooney. Well, mebbe I don't want to then, but I would av 
I was alone. And if we have to fight — if we can't help it, you 
know — 

She. Yes. 

Dooney. Begorra, then I will be glad; and ye can't blame me. 

She. Well, from what I hear, it will have to be fight or sur- 
render with the boys. 

Dooney. Hurroo ! Let it be fight, then. (^She looks at him 
reproachfully.') I'm sorry I m glad, Shelah. Don't mind it. 

She. Ye're a very unsteady man for a married man, sir. 

Dooney. I'm not a married man. When I am — 

She (^Saucily.) Yis ; when you are ? 

Dooney. I'll tell you the rest — when I'm a married man. 
But now, Shelah, don't shtop any longer, for we've got rale work 
before us. Go and tell your lady the news as aisy as you can, and 
say to her for me, that before one hair o' Masther Edmund's head 
comes to harm, there'll be a good many other heads broke. 

She. {Going L.) Well, take care of yourself, Dooney. 

Dooney I will jist now. When we get to Amerikay, She- 
lah, I'll let you take care of me, for I'll be busy with affairs of 
state . 

She. It's a stately man you're getting to be, sir, [Exit L. 

Dooney. And now I must see the b'yes, and get ready, for 
we've not much time to go on. {Going i?, stops.) By the pow- 
ers, if here ain't that blackguard Burke. I'd give a little to bat- 



L 



40 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

ther his skull, but it wouldn't do in the street. I wonder if he'd 
know me. (^Turns and affects to examine houses. Cautious music.^ 

Enter Burke, R. He crosses L, then stops and regards Doonet 
suspiciousli/. 

Burke My man, it strikes me you keep closely muffled for 
a warm day. These are times when honest men shouldn't be 
afraid to show their faces. 

DoONEY. (^Coughing and speaking in piping voice.) It's the 
browncheeters as is killin' of me. 

Burke. You don't look like a very sick man. Turn and show 
your face (^Chord.') 

DooNEY. {Turns.') Well, Misther Burke, it's as good as your 
own, and no worse lookin'. 

Burke. Oho! Mister McHugh — It's you, is it? Now, my 
lad, I've got ye ! I'll leave you safe with the soldiers. You'll 
have a good swing for your rebel's tricks. 

Dooney. But if I'll not go wid ye, Mishter Sheil Burke? 

Burke. If you'll not come quietly, I'll raise the alarm and 
bring the guards. They're just around the corner. So be care- 
ful, Mr. Dooney McHugh. 

Dooney. And you, too, Burke. It's in no humor for play I am. 

Burke. Well, here's that'll persuade you to come. (Makes 
motion to draw pistol. Dooney presents pistol at Burke's head. 
Quick chord of music ) 

Dooney. It's too late ye are, Mishter Sheil ])rop that fist, 
or I'll dirty the streets wid your ugly brains. Maybe now you 
could be persuaded to come with me, instead. 

Re-enter Dermott and Blake. 

Der. What keeps you, Dooney? What does this mean? 

Dooney. It manes that if it wasn't for raisin' the alarm, I'd 
make an end of the blackest dog in Ireland. Lade him down to 
O'Leary's, boys. And, Mishter Burke, as a bit o' comfort, mind 
this : If the Captain's shot, you'll swing. And if ye try to raise 
any alarm in the streets, I'll put a bullet into ye, as sure as my 
name's McHugh. (Dermott and Blake lead off Burke, R, 
Dooney following. Music, ^^ Exile of Erin.'") 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 41 

SCENE 111. Moonlight Ruins. The Abbey of St Kevin. A 
Bench for Edmund, L, Table and Benches^ R. Corporal and Ser- 
geant, with Cards at Table. Guards on Duty. Break- Away Wall 
at Back, 4 G, seen through a ruined Archway. Two Sentinels 
pacing across behind arch. Banks seated R, and O'Neill, L. 
Lights down and. moonlight. 

Ed. {Solus.) And this is the end of all. Dreams of glory 
in honorable service of my country ; of a free land and free Irish- 
men — or at worst a gallant death, striking at our foes- -all my 
high treasured visions resolved into the terrible reality of this 
ignominious death. 1 1 is hard to die so young — to leave behind 
us unprotected dear ones, but doubly hard when death is fruitless. 

Enter Captain Evelyn and Major Millward, L. 

Maj. I hope, Captain O'Neill, you are resigned to your fate. 
You have but one hour to live. 

Ed. I shall be prepared. 

Capt. For the part I have taken in your capture and convic- 
tion, Mr. O'Neill, I trust you bear no malice. You had my sym- 
pathy through all. 

Ed Your duty was imperative. I blame you not for follow- 
ing its calls. 

Maj. You are a fine fellow, and I am sorry that you were led 
into this wild rising. It was hopeless. Your leader, Lord Fitz- 
gerald, was two days since captured, badly wounded, and is now 
dying in prison. 

Ed. Can this be true ? 

Maj. Could we have any motive to deceive you? 

Ed. True. Poor Lord Edward ! Poor Erin ! We all go 
down together. 

Guard. ( Without.) Who goes there? (Banks goes back to 
archway.) 

Banks. A woman is without, and asks to see the priBoner. 

Ed. {Aside.) Can it be Blanche ? 

Capt. Admit her. She may speak with him in our presence, 
or rather in yours, Major, for I have a matter that calls me away. 

Maj. But you'll be back in time for— ( Nods toward Neill.) 

Capt. Oh, certainly. (Aside.) Shall I tell this young man 
what I am trying for? No I may fail, and suspense would be 
but added torture to him. [Exit R 1 E. 

Banks ushers in Shelah, through arch from R. 



42 LAMBH DARRAGH. 

Ed. Shelah, is it you, girl ? I am truly glad to see you here. 

She. And I'm sorry enough to see you here, sir. But I've 
some words to give you which maybe you'd rather not have other 
ears listen to. 

Ed. (^To Major.) May she speak to me privately? 

Maj. I will move out of hearing, but not out of sight {Goe% 
to tahle^ hut stands so as to observe them.') 

Ed Now, Shelah, I see you have something important. 

She. Dade, and it is sir. Dooney and the b'yes'll be here in 
ten minutes. 

Ed. Ha! 

She. And they're too many for the sodgers, if they can break 
down the walls. I've a pistol here in my bosom, which Dooney 
gave me to slip to you. ^ 

Ed. You could not do it. The ^'major is suspicious, and 
watches us closely. Besides, I am shackled. 

She Then I can't do any good. 

Ed. Perhaps }ou can, brave girl You have the weapon, and. 
may protect me, if you can contrive to remain until the attack. 
Let me devise means to detain you. Sit here. (Edmund rises 
and crosses R to Major.) Major, may I send a parting line to a 
dear friend ? 

Maj. 1 do not object, but I can not allow you to be unmanacled 
However, if you will accept me as amanuensis, I shall be glad to 
serve you. 

Ed. I avail myself of your kindness with thanks. (Guard 
challenges without as before. Chord.) 

Banks (Looks out.) Mr. Burke desires instant admittance. 

Maj. Let him in. 

Enter Sheil Burke, C arch from R, excited, pistol in hand. 

Burke Prepare for attack. I was a prisoner with the Irish 
and have just escaped. They have started to rescue this prisoner, 
and will be here in a moment. 

Guard (Without.) Stand back, or I fire ! (Chord.) 

Maj. Stand to your guns, men! (Hurry music. Rushes out 
arch, C. Guards take guns and follow. Shots heard without. 
Distant shouts of '-Ireland Forever^ heard. Cautious music to end 
of scene. Sergeant and Corporal run from table., and stand 
G in affright.) 

Sergt. Go for them, Corporal. Here's glory. 

Corp. I don't want glory — I want to go home. 

Serg't. Pshaw! Corporal, why aren't you brave like I am? 

(Shots heard. Sergeant runs off L, followed by Corporal.) 



LAMBH DARRAGH. 43 

Burke. You needn't flatter yourself with hope of rescue, 
Edmund O'Neill. I'll take care of you, my man. 

Ed. You are a brave fellow to a man unarmed and bound. 

Burke. You will find I'm a match for you. (^Noise continues.') 

Ed. Keep on, lads — the soldiers yield. 

Burke. It shall not help you. I swore to have your life. Die 
like a dog. (Burke levels pistol at O'Neill. Shelah, who has 
been watching him, shoots him dead. Loud explosion. The wall 
falls in, showing the Irish behind. Irish run in through arch, and 
over ruins Soldiers, led by Major Millward, come on L, and 
face Peasants, Edmund between. Noise ceases.) 

Maj. Yield, dogs, or die! (Edmund is unshackled, and 
snatches up sword.) 

Ed. Let it be death, then. (Music stops. Captain Evelyn 
rushes on R 1 E, followed by Blanche and Grace.) 

Capt. Hold all ! I hold here a general pardon for Edmund 
O'Neill and all his men. Let no one molest them. {Holds up pardon.) 

Blanche. Dear Edmund. {Rushes to him.) 

Grace. (To captain.) You've earned your gift. (Gives hand.) 

DooNEY. (To Shelah.) Well, Shelah, if we're not to have a 
general battle, I'll stir up a little war for myself I'll marry you. 

Capt. You're a brave lad. 

DooNEY. (Taking off his cap.) I'm an Irishman. 

(Music. Tableau. Sergeant and Corporal come on L, and 
stand looking very fierce.) 

CURTAIN. 



positions. 
Peasants back. Soldiers back. 

R. — Grace, Captain, Blanche, Edmund. 

Shelah, Dooney, Major, Sergeant, Corporal.— L. 






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